Moving can be a stressful experience, and if you have a cat, the stress can be multiplied. However, with the right preparation, you can make the move less traumatic for your feline friend. In this guide, we offer you tips on how to handle moving with a cat , from preparations beforehand to adjusting to the new home . Let’s make this experience as smooth as possible for your kitty!
How to prepare a cat for a move?
Preparing your cat for a move involves a number of steps to minimize stress and anxiety. Here are some key strategies:
- Visit the vet : Before the move, take your cat to the vet for a general checkup. Make sure all of his vaccinations are up to date and discuss any concerns you may have about the move.
- Create a safe space : Designate a quiet room in your current home where your cat can retreat during preparations. Place his bed, toys, food, and litter box in this space.
- Get your cat used to the carrier : Leave the carrier open in their safe space so they can get familiar with it. Place treats and their favorite blanket inside to encourage them to get in. If you need more tips, here are some tricks to get your cat used to using the carrier .
- Maintain a routine : Cats are creatures of routine. Try to keep their feeding and play schedules as consistent as possible during this period.
Moving day
How to make moving less stressful
Moving day can be chaotic, but with a few tricks, you can keep your cat calm:
- Keep your cat in a safe room: During the move, leave your cat in a locked room with a note on the door so the movers don’t accidentally enter.
- Use pheromones: Pheromone diffusers can help calm your cat. Place one in the safe room a few days before the move.
- Preparing the carrier: Just before you leave, place your cat in the carrier with a familiar blanket. This will help him feel more secure during the trip.
Keep your cat safe and comfortable during the move
Transport can be one of the most stressful parts of your journey for your cat . Here are some tips to make the trip as comfortable as possible:
- Stay calm: Cats are very sensitive to their owners’ emotions. If you’re calm, your cat is more likely to be calm too.
- Avoid feeding your cat just before the trip: To prevent motion sickness, it is best not to feed your cat in the hours before the trip.
- Secure the carrier: Place the carrier in a safe place in the car , where it won’t move around too much. You can use the seat belt to keep it in place. If you need to find the best carrier for your cat, don’t miss this complete guide on the best cat carriers .
Also take a look at our post “ How to travel with a cat in a car ” with all the necessary recommendations for a safe and peaceful trip.
What to do if your cat hides during the move
It’s common for cats to hide when they feel threatened. If your cat hides during the move , don’t worry. The most important thing is to respect his space and not try to force him out. Give him time to come out on his own when he feels safe. During this process, you can use treats and toys to encourage him to come out of hiding, but always in a gentle way and without pressuring him.
Arriving at your new home: first days with your cat
Here are some tips to make the adjustment easier:
- Choose a quiet room where your cat can stay at first. Place his bed, litter box, food and water in this area.
- Allow your cat to explore the new home little by little. Start with one room and gradually open up access to other areas.
- Cats feel safer when they have places to hide. Place boxes or cave beds in their safe area.
Signs of a depressed cat after moving house and what to do
Moving to a new home is not only a big change for us, but also for our cats. These animals are very sensitive to changes in their environment and can feel disoriented or even depressed.
Signs of a depressed cat :
- Loss of appetite.
- Isolation or hiding more than normal.
- Change in sleeping habits.
- Lack of interest in playing.
- Change in personal hygiene.
How to act :
- Establish consistent schedules for feeding, playing, and resting.
- Provides a quiet, cozy place with familiar objects.
- Play and pet your cat to strengthen the bond.
- Pheromone diffusers can help reduce stress.
- If symptoms persist, seek professional help.
With these tips, you can help your cat overcome depression and adapt more easily to its new home. For more information, read our article on stress in cats: causes, symptoms and how to treat it .
